Washington State Point System

Many states have a point system that keeps track of a driver’s traffic violations. For example, driving ten miles per hour over the speed limit may count as two points, while failing to yield to an emergency vehicle can count as four points. After a certain number of points have been accumulated, a driver may face increased fine, as well as a driver’s license suspension.

Although Washington State does not utilize a points system; offenders with multiple speeding tickets or other traffic offenses could still lose their driving privileges. These violations will also be reported on your driving record, which can lead to a dramatic increase in insurance premiums.

If a Washington State driver has four moving violations in one year, or five moving violations within two years, his or her license may be put on probation for one year. If a Washington State driver has six or more moving violations in one year, his or her license may be suspended for 60 days.  For multiple violations and/or criminal traffic offenses, a driver could be placed into the status of a “habitual traffic offender” (HTO) and lose his or her license for several years.

After a driver’s license suspension, the driver may need to pay a reinstatement fee, and possibly obtain special insurance (SR22) or complete other requirements.

You can check the status of your driver’s license by ordering a driving record report. This report will show you everything that is on your record, including whether your license has been suspended or revoked. This can be obtained by visiting a department of licensing office, or online, a small fee will be required to obtain the record, also known as an “abstract of driving record.”

If you have recently been charged with a traffic violation, you should consider how it may affect your future driving privilege, employment and insurance rates. Drivers with multiple offenses on their record may need to speak with an experienced traffic attorney to discuss whether fighting a ticket will help save them from a license suspension or revocation. Insurance rates may also be affected, especially if your insurance provider considers you a “high-risk” driver.

The experienced traffic defense team at Callahan Law can help you fight your ticket. Whether you have been charged with speeding, reckless driving, negligent driving, DUI, or driving on a suspended license, we will investigate your case and build a solid defense and endeavor to  secure the best possible outcome for you. Because our practice is devoted to traffic defense, we know Washington State traffic laws inside and out, which is used to our clients’ benefit.